Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Fernando Torres Can Shine In Euro 2008 Says Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso is tipping club and country team-mate Fernando Torres to be one of the stars of Euro 2008 when it kicks off on Saturday.

After an incredible debut season at Anfield, in which the Spanish striker netted 33 goals in all competitions, Alonso insists that Torres is ready to terrorise international defences in Austria and Switzerland.

Alonso, whose own Liverpool future has been the subject of speculation since the end of the season, said: “The way we play with Spain is different to the way we play with Liverpool, but I think he is quite confident in himself.

"Whenever he gets the ball we think that something might happen. He has scored so many goals and hopefully he will continue this run in the Euros.

"Even the more optimistic could be surprised at how easily he settled at Liverpool because of the way he has performed. He has been so confident on the pitch and in front of goal and that is great news for Liverpool and Spain.

"And, obviously, it is hard but once he learns a few more things he will be even better."

Despite a record of underachievement in major tournaments, Alonso believes Spain are finally well equipped to challenge for glory at the championships.

Luis Aragones' side arrive in Austria and Switzerland heavily backed and expected to challenge for a trophy that has eluded them since the Sixties.

The history books provide less cause for optimism than the bookies though, with Spain having repeatedly faltered on the biggest stage.

"There is no clear reason, but it's clear we have underachieved," Alonso confirmed.

"Each tournament is a great chance for us to try and prove that we can perform and be positive in a final tournament.

"Because of that we have faith in ourselves and we will strive to reach the level we expect and want to reach."

Spain have an embarrassment of riches in Alonso's position, with the likes of Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas vying to partner Xavi in central midfield.

While being more than generous in appraisal of his rival Fabregas, Alonso makes clear that Spain's game plan revolves around getting the ball to Barcelona star Xavi's feet at every opportunity.

Alonso added: "It's great, with the qualities that they (Cesc and Iniesta) have. But the style of the national team is quite clear - get the ball to Xavi.

"We play possession football and with those players it's normal that it's quite an attractive prospect.

"Cesc has been great. Arsenal have presented a great style of football, with Fabregas at the hub of it.

"A couple of times this season they have been amazing. The player that has been the link between the defence and the attack, the team playmaker, has been Fabregas."

Alonso's own season, much like Liverpool's in fact, has been one of frustration.

A broken ankle saw him miss three months of the season but he is quick to spin a negative on its head; of the opinion that a prolonged spell on the sidelines makes him even fresher heading into the Euros.

"I feel that I have quite a good moment of form - I have quite fresh legs.

"Of course I had an injury before Christmas - for three months I was out - but now I am feeling fresher than if I would have played all of the games.

"It's been a disappointing season because of the injury but right now I am in a good moment and hopefully that will continue."

The greatest debate with regards Aragones' squad selection surrounded his omission of Real Madrid talisman Raul.

Having helped Real to the title by rolling back the years with a series of vintage displays, it was expected Raul would win a recall to Aragones' 23-man squad.

However, the veteran tactician elected to give youth its chance and Alonso is quick to play the diplomat when quizzed on Raul's snub.

"I have to respect the manager's decision. Of course it's the main debate in Spain - it's all over there - with Real Madrid having won the league and he having been one of the main reasons why.

"But the matter is in the hands of the manager."

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